2016 First Round Picks That Will Break Out In 2018

this is a discussion within the Saints Community Forum; Sheldon Rankins DT
Rankins, the 12th pick of the 2016 draft, missed a chunk of his rookie season with a broken fibula he suffered during a preseason practice. He still managed to collect four sacks in nine games played, though. ...

Rankins, the 12th pick of the 2016 draft, missed a chunk of his rookie season with a broken fibula he suffered during a preseason practice. He still managed to collect four sacks in nine games played, though. In 2017, Rankins started every game, showing good consistency and disruptiveness, but recorded very modest production with 26 total tackles and two sacks. Rankins is in position for a classic Year Three jump based upon his talent, consistency, and experience at the position. This should be the year where we see Rankins come into his own against both the run and pass. A season with 50 tackles and six or more sacks is attainable. If first-round pick Marcus Davenport, an edge rusher, can get out of the blocks quickly, that should help Rankins and the Saints’ defense even more.

But honestly, I like his versatility (he can play vertical and horizontal). Half of his time was playing DE when Okafor went down. I also believe he will "break out" in 2018. There are play makers around him.

If we can click defensively as a UNIT & stay relatively healthy ... top 10 defense.

But honestly, I like his versatility (he can play vertical and horizontal). Half of his time was playing DE when Okafor went down. I also believe he will "break out" in 2018. There are play makers around him.

If we can click defensively as a UNIT & stay relatively healthy ... top 10 defense.